Trusting God’s Plans

Pastor Doug Heisel – April 20, 2025

Ephesians 3:20-21 — Now to Him who is able to do above and beyond all that we ask or think according to the power that works in us —  to Him be glory in the church and in
Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

Luke 24:14-21 — One of them, named Cleopas, asked Him, “Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?” “What things?” He asked. “About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. The chief priests and our rulers handed Him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified Him; but we had hoped that He was the one who was going to redeem Israel.

God is CLOSER than you think,
doing MORE than you imagine.

1. The Lord can take what people do TO you, and turn it around to accomplish what He wants to do THROUGH you.

Psalm 41:9 — Even my close friend whom I trusted, the one who shared my bread, has lifted up his heel against me.

John 13:18-19 — “… this is to fulfill the Scripture: ‘The one who shares My bread has lifted up his heel against Me.’ I am telling you now before it happens, so that when it comes to pass, you will believe that I am He.”

A few other prophecies about what people would do to the real Messiah:

• Betray Him for 30 pieces of silver (Zechariah 11:13)

• Falsely accuse Him (Psalm 27:12)

• Gamble for His garment (Psalms 22:18)

• Insult and mock Him (Psalms 22:6-8)

2. The Lord can arrange circumstances so they happen exactly when the TIMING is best, from His perspective. 

Acts 13:29 — When they had fulfilled all the prophecies concerning His death, He was taken from the cross and placed in a tomb.

The most remarkable act of God’s perfect timing is that Pilate “just happened to” sentence Jesus to death during the Jewish Passover.

Joel 2:25 — (The Lord says) And I will restore to you the years that the locust have eaten…

3. The Lord is able to take your PAINFUL experiences and turn them into EVIDENCE that His grace is greater.

Psalm 22:16 — …they pierce my hands and my feet.

Luke 23:33 — When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified Him there…

John 20:26-27 — Eight days later, His disciples were again in the room. This time Thomas was with them. Jesus came through the locked doors, stood among them, and said, “Peace to you.” Then He focused His attention on Thomas. “Take your finger and examine my hands. Take your hand
and stick it in my side. Don’t be unbelieving. Believe.”

OUR SERIES CONTINUES NEXT SUNDAY

“Better Than Your Best”